A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lagos vs. Piazza Armerina for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lagos and Piazza Armerina. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lagos

Lagos is a vibrant, beautiful, and scenic resort town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a authentic, historic, and charming town. It's also known for food and museums.

Lagos and Piazza Armerina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lagos. Although Lagos and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations, Lagos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lagos is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Piazza Armerina attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Lagos is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is known for its dramatic beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It is also well known for Ponta da Piedade. Piazza Armerina is famous for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Lagos different from Piazza Armerina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Piazza Armerina and Lagos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Piazza Armerina. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

Lagos does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lagos or Piazza Armerina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lagos. The city offers some of the best food in the Algarve. The old town has plenty of restaurants that are both affordable and high quality. Seafood is the obvious choice, but you'll also find tapas, paellas, and local dishes such as cataplana (a seafood and chorizo stew). Most restaurants serve up a local fish of the day as well as prawns and other seafood items.

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Nightlife?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

Lagos has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a mellow vibe, even at night, but that's not to say there aren't good parties going on, particularly during the peak of the travel season. There's a local charm to the nightlife scene here and you'll likely start to recognize other party-goers. Many of the bars are housed in character-filled old buildings which can feel a bit cramped, but that's all part of the charm.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Resorts?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Piazza Armerina is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Lagos for its luxury resorts. As a resort town, you'll find no shortage of places to stay in the area. If you don't have a car, your best options are in the historic center. If transportation isn't a concern, then you'll find plenty of great resorts in the Marina, Meia Praia, Dona Ana Beach, Camilo Beach, and Porto de Mós Beach.

Piazza Armerina is not a resort destination.


Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Piazza Armerina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Lagos. With its unique rock formations and caves, there are many spots where you can snorkel or scuba dive nearby. There's also sparkling blue waters and plenty of marine life including lobster, shrimp, anemones, octopuses, and brightly colored fish.

Piazza Armerina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Beaches?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Lagos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are long, flat and sandy with beautifully dramatic rock formations. The largest beach in the area is Meia Praia and arguably one of the best beaches is Praia Dona Ana. For convenience, Praia da Batata is the closest beach to town. Praia de Porto de Mós is one of the more quiet beaches, but it's still along a bus line. For beautiful nature head to either Praia dos Estudantes or Praia dos Pinheiros.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for its Old Town?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is well known for its historic old town. However, Lagos does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Piazza Armerina. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

Lagos does not have a historic old town.


Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Hiking?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Lagos is a popular spot for hiking. The city makes an excellent base for exploring some of the nearby hikes and walks. Favorite places to hike include the famous Ponte de Piedade Trail, which is the last part of the multi-day Fisherman's Trail. It takes you by many beautiful rock formations and scenic viewpoints. Another scenic hike is The Alvor Walkways, which is a series of boardwalks through sand dunes.

Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lagos offers some nice shopping areas. The town has a long history of local artisan crafts. You can head to the seafront promenade and find local traditional items such as ceramics, leather goods, and jewelry.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Families?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Lagos is very family-friendly. You can spend days hanging out on the beautiful beaches, but there are so many other activities that the whole family will enjoy. Explore the caves in kayaks, take surfing lessons, head for the zoo, or go dolphin watching. There are also plenty of playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants around town.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.


Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Couples?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Lagos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The beaches and hotels in the area offer a truly romantic setting for couples, whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's weekend getaway. Spend some time on the beach or go kayaking through the caves. Get a spa treatment at a luxury hotel or go wine tasting through the countryside. You can also enjoy the beautiful sunsets on a sunset boat cruise while sipping a glass of local wine.

Piazza Armerina is a good resort town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Lagos is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lagos. The area is a favorite for backpackers who come to hang out on the beaches during the day or party late into the night after the sun goes down. There are plenty of hostels around town and many offer a social vibe where it's easy to meet other travelers.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a good destination for its public transit. However, Lagos is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Piazza Armerina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lagos. The area has buses, but they are limited in where they go. There is also reduced service on weekends and holidays.


Is Lagos or Piazza Armerina a more walkable city?

Lagos
Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is well known for its walkability. However, Lagos is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Piazza Armerina is very walkable. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

Lagos is not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to have a car as some areas are very hilly and many resorts are outside of town. Depending on your fitness level and motivation, you may be able to get by without a vehicle, but it is generally not recommended.

For even more information, also check out Is Lagos Worth Visiting? and Is Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Piazza Armerina or Lagos?

How long in Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lagos or Piazza Armerina to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lagos than Piazza Armerina because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Lagos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Piazza Armerina.

Families should spend more time in Lagos than Piazza Armerina. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lagos, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lagos than Piazza Armerina. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lagos that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lagos than Piazza Armerina if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lagos.


  • How many days in Lagos or Piazza Armerina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lagos 3-5 
    Piazza Armerina 1-2

One day in Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

The dramatic destination of Lagos offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Piazza Armerina, many people enjoy the food and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

The resort town of Lagos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Piazza Armerina. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Lagos is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This resort town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Piazza Armerina is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Piazza Armerina. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lagos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Piazza Armerina. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Piazza Armerina or Lagos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lagos is €118, while the average daily cost in Piazza Armerina is €93. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lagos and Piazza Armerina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lagos 61
    Piazza Armerina 56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lagos 122
    Piazza Armerina 112
Compare Hotels in Lagos and Piazza Armerina

Looking for a hotel in Lagos or Piazza Armerina? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lagos


Hotels in Piazza Armerina


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Lagos Hotel Prices and Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lagos 31
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lagos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lagos:

  • Transfer Burgau - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $55
  • Transfer Praia da Luz - Alamos Golf (Portimão): $58
  • Transfer Praia da Luz - Balaia Golf (Albufeira): $70
  • Car or Van Departure Transfer Meia Praia or Lagos to Faro Airport: $78
  • Private Transfer from Praia da Luz to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102
  • Private Transfer from Gil Eannes Square to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102
  • Private Transfer from Santa Maria (Lagos) to Faro (FAO) Airport: $102
  • Faro Airport: Private Transfer to/from Monchique or Lagos: $103
  • Private Transfer to Faro Airport (60 min): $107
  • Faro Airport to/from Lagos/Private Transfer max 4 passengers: $118
  • Faro Airport: Private Transfer With Options To or From Lagos: $128
  • Private Transfer from Budens to Faro (FAO) Airport: $130

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Prices for flights to both Piazza Armerina and Lagos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lagos 34
    Piazza Armerina 33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lagos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lagos.

  • Classic Food Tour - Lagos: $97
  • Full-Day West Coast Adventure with Hiking, Sunset, Dinner & Wine : $120

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lagos 26
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Tours and Activities in Lagos

Here are a few actual costs in Lagos for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Lagos Scavenger Hunt and Sights Private Self-Guided Tour: $7.84
  • Guided Walking Tour with Brodie from Australia: $16
  • Ponta da Piedade Rock Formations Guided Boat Tour: $19
  • Tour to go inside the Ponta da Piedade Caves/Grottos and see the beaches - Lagos: $20
  • Lagos Street Art: In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • In-App Adventure Hunt: $21
  • Ponta da Piedade Grotto Tour: $22
  • Boat Tours: $27
  • Ponta da Piedade Grotto Tour in Lagos, Algarve: $27
  • Coast Cruise Trip to Ponta da Piedade from Lagos: $29
  • NATURA TOUR - Countryside of Lagos - ECO TUK and LOCAL guide: $29
  • TUK TUK Tour Lagos Old& New Town& Beaches- Best way to know: $31

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lagos 6.79
    Piazza Armerina 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Lagos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Lagos:

  • Lagos Wine Tasting and Tapas: $44
  • Small-Group Day Tour of Silves and Monchique with Wine Tasting: $86
  • Benagil Secrets: Jeep and Boat Tour with Wine Tasting: $104


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lagos and Piazza Armerina, we can see that Lagos is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lagos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lagos than you might in Piazza Armerina.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lagos Expensive? and Is Piazza Armerina Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Piazza Armerina has a larger population, and is about 12% larger than the population of Lagos. When comparing the sizes of Lagos and Piazza Armerina, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Lagos or Piazza Armerina?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lagos or Piazza Armerina in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lagos and Piazza Armerina. The summer months attract visitors to Lagos because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Piazza Armerina this time of year.

In the summer, Lagos is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lagos in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Lagos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lagos usually receives more rain than Piazza Armerina. Lagos gets 243 mm (9.6 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lagos 25°C (77°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Piazza Armerina in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lagos as well as Piazza Armerina. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lagos this time of year.

In October, Lagos is generally a little warmer than Piazza Armerina. Daily temperatures in Lagos average around 26°C (79°F), and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

Lagos receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lagos usually gets more rain in October than Piazza Armerina. Lagos gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lagos 26°C (79°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Piazza Armerina in the Winter?

Both Piazza Armerina and Lagos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lagos for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Piazza Armerina in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Lagos is much warmer than Piazza Armerina in the winter. The daily temperature in Lagos averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In January, Lagos usually receives less rain than Piazza Armerina. Lagos gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lagos 27°C (81°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Lagos or Piazza Armerina in the Spring?

Both Piazza Armerina and Lagos during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lagos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lagos is much warmer than Piazza Armerina. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lagos in April average around 28°C (82°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lagos. Lagos usually gets more rain in April than Piazza Armerina. Lagos gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lagos 28°C (82°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Piazza Armerina and Lagos

Lagos Piazza Armerina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 29°C (84°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 29°C (84°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 28°C (82°F) 146 mm (5.7 in) 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 27°C (81°F) 202 mm (8 in) 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 26°C (79°F) 316 mm (12.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 243 mm (9.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in)
Sep 26°C (79°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 26°C (79°F) 125 mm (4.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)